Has the ‘best player in the world’ debate been put to bed? Has Lionel Messi finally proved that of this moment, and for foreseeable future, that he is the greatest talent currently playing the beautiful game? At times, his play astounds the average observer. Last night, his play astounded the world.
Arsene Wenger, the manager that had just witnessed his side being brutally knocked out of the Champions League by one man, a notorious stickler for skill and technical ability, said of Messi after last night’s game: “For me, he is the best player in the world by a distance.” It is hard to disagree. After a setback through Nicklas Bendtner’s goal in the 19th minute, Barcelona needed someone to spark their concise and thoughtful possession to life. Cue one Lionel Andr
